Developmental Editing Samples
These samples showcase my approach to developmental editing, focusing on clarity, specificity, reader engagement, and preserving the writer’s authentic voice.
Sample 1: Encouraging Specificity
Editorial Note
“Could you give one or two examples of what this ‘false version’ looked like in practice? Specific details would help readers understand the contrast between who you were presenting and who you really were.”
Why I Suggested This
Readers connect most strongly to concrete examples. This section introduced an important concept, but additional detail would help readers better understand the contrast between who the author was presenting and who they really were.
Sample 2: Making Abstract Ideas More Tangible
Editorial Note
“Could you include a specific example here? Showing what you were pushing yourself to do would make this point feel more tangible.”
Why I Suggested This
The passage raised an interesting question about self-sacrifice in relationships, but providing a real-world example would help readers better understand the author’s experience and strengthen the emotional impact.
My Editing Approach
✓ Clarity and readability
✓ Reader engagement
✓ Narrative flow
✓ Voice preservation
✓ Developmental feedback
I believe editing is most effective when it helps writers communicate what they already want to say more clearly and powerfully.
Samples shown are from developmental editing work and have been adapted for portfolio purposes.